We sell the world’s best chicken. Seriously. And we’ve done it since 1939, when the idea of crispy, original recipe chicken took Kentucky by storm. Now, we’re proud to serve 1000+ communities across the UK and Ireland, bringing the grit, pride and iconic reputation that we started with, all those years ago. Across the Restaurant Support Centre (RSC), we come to work to be ourselves, and to make something of ourselves. We want to see our potential go that little bit further, as part of one of the world’s most iconic brands. What’s the gig? Well, you support our restaurants — and we’ll support you every step of the way. Simple. Our doors are open — and they can take you anywhere.

All we ask is that you be you. Because that makes us, us. Sound good?Great. Let’s find out about that job.

THE TEAM

Our Operations teams are where the real magic happens - running over 250 company-owned restaurants across the UK and Ireland, supporting our teams on the ground, solving challenges and driving for better every day. It’s hands-on, people-first work, packed with real growth, real impact, and plenty of fun along the way.

From the teams serving up the Colonel’s Original Recipeto life,to the leaders drivingcustomer excellence, food safety,riskand compliance,we areanarmy ofbold, passionate, guest obsessedpeople,keepingKFC at its best.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As Innovation Lead, you'll shape the future of restaurant operations at KFC UK&I. You'll define and deliver our Operations Innovation Strategy, leading a portfolio of initiatives that improve the experience for our teams, franchisees and guests. Working across the business, you'll turn ambitious ideas into practical, scalable solutions that drive operational excellence and commercial results.

WHAT WILL YOU SPEND YOUR TIME DOING?

Lead the Operations Innovation portfolio from concept through to rollout and adoption.
Turn business strategy into clear innovation priorities and delivery plans.
Drive cross-functional programmes across Operations, Technology, Supply Chain, Finance, Commercial and Global teams.
Lead restaurant pilots and market tests, using insights to shape future initiatives.
Build strong relationships with franchisees and stakeholders to drive engagement and adoption.
Develop business cases, manage governance and track the benefits of innovation initiatives.
Champion continuous improvement that enhances restaurant performance, team experience and guest satisfaction.

WHAT WE LOVE FROM YOU:

A strategic thinker with a passion for innovation and continuous improvement.
An influential leader who brings people together to deliver change.
Strong commercial acumen and the ability to balance big-picture thinking with operational practicality.
Confidence leading complex, cross-functional programmes in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
A collaborative approach and a drive to make a measurable impact

EXPERIENCE

Essential

Experience in Innovation, Strategy, Transformation or Operational Excellence.
Proven track record of leading complex cross-functional change programmes.
Strong project or programme management experience.
Experience developing business cases and delivering measurable commercial outcomes.
Excellent stakeholder management and influencing skills.

Desirable

Experience in restaurant, retail, hospitality or another multi-site environment.
Experience working with franchise businesses.
Knowledge of operating model design, change management and innovation delivery.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU:

We offer benefits that make your life that little bit easier, because we know the juggle is real.

From flexible, hybrid working to Fri-Yay early finishes and Live Well Days, we’ve created a package that supports the real you, in and out of work.

Hybrid working from our Woking RSC (just 24 mins from London)
Up to 11% company pension contributions
Fri-Yay finishes at 1pm every Friday
25 days’ holiday (plus bank hols)
5 Live Well Days a year, just for you
Bonus scheme linked to company & personal performance
Private healthcare, Digital GP access & mental health coaching
Enhanced parental leave and flexible return options
Study support, income protection, life cover & more
And yes—25% off the chicken!

Because real ones deserve real rewards.

KFC FOR EVERYONE:

Whoever you are and wherever you’re from, KFC is a place where you can bring the real you to work.

Our promise is this: every person who applies to a role at KFC, regardless of age, background, ethnicity, gender, ability, religion or sexual orientation, will have an equal opportunity to work here. We don’t just welcome, we encourage applications from underrepresented groups from all industries.

If you’d like any additional support with your application, have a disability or condition that may affect your performance during the recruitment process, or have any other requirements — just let us know. We’ll be there to help you be the real you.

Ready?

We hope so, if you’re ready to be part of our community, now’s the time to apply.

Worried you aren’t ticking all the boxes? Don’t - we’d still love to hear from you.

Compensation: Competitive salary

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KFC UK & I - Operations (Restaurant Excellence) jobs

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